National Gallery Singapore: Plethora of Southeast Asian Art In One Spectacular Place

National
Gallery Singapore

Ever since Singapore’s National Gallery opened
a couple of months ago, there has been more than a palette full of positive
reviews I’ve been hearing from friends. The National
Gallery Singapore is the newest visual arts institution in SG’s ever
growing arts scene, housing the largest collection of modern art in South East
Asia. Singapore has
beautifully restored the former Supreme Court and the City Hall to house all
the uniquely multicultural Asian arts.

A couple of weekends ago, I’ve gotten an all access pass to the whole national gallery, which showcases paintings from Southeast Asia, Europe, and Beyond. With its theme as “Reframing Modernism”, my interpretation of modernism and art has certainly been re-framed. I’ve never been more appreciative of lines, sketches, and interpretations as what I have now. Half day full of 30 minute tours, DIY self-study of the portraits, and sitting down to dichotomize the art’s meanings, the exhibitions, tours, and artworks cannot simply be completed and appreciated in one go! Too much talent, yes.

Surprisingly, there were a lot of paintings from Vietnam, Indonesia, Paris, and the Philippines. But most importantly, the art in Singapore since the 19th Century can be found inside the National Gallery. Notable art forms: Drying Salted Fish. 1978 (which you can actually find in a Singapore 50 Dollar Note), and the 13th May Incident. 1954.

It’s a place where you should spend at least a day or two. Seeing all the special exhibitions, programmes, tours, even dining and shopping. Southeast Asian Art Museum at its finest; it is undeniably a place to get some awe-inspiring ideas when it comes to art and cultural brilliances.

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Bowdy is an amateur adventurer, a coffee sleepyhead, and a start-up rooter, with a penchant for classic-looking photos. At last count, he has visited some 52 countries, and is now living in Singapore. He's always in search of fascinating routines to exploit, within the edges of after-office hours and (un)limited holidays.